Wednesday, March 7, 2018

What's More Dangerous: Open or Closed Surgery?

This is a sponsored post I received compensation for this post!

There are a variety of reasons why people choose to seek a rhinoplasty, which is often simply termed a "nose job." In some cases, the primary factor is one of health, such as when you are suffering from chronic allergies or sinusitis.

In other cases, you may want to address a long-standing dissatisfaction with the appearance of your nose. Past trauma to the nose, including prior rhinoplasty, can also cause both cosmetic and health issues, indicating a revision rhinoplasty is the best procedural choice.

What Is a Rhinoplasty?

A rhinoplasty, or nose job, is a dual purpose surgical procedure that can correct both cosmetic and structural issues present in the nose. In fact, a rhinoplasty procedure can often address both cosmetic and health issues in a single surgery.

What Is a Revision Rhinoplasty?

A revision rhinoplasty is a follow-up procedure to a prior surgery on the nose, either to correct cosmetic or health issues that remain following the first procedure or to provide further correction as needed over the course of time.

How Is a Rhinoplasty Procedure Done?

A rhinoplasty, whether your first or a revision procedure, is done under some type of anesthesia, usually either I.V. or general. There are two basic methods for rhinoplasty surgery: open and closed. The type used will depend on your specific concerns and needs.

You can have a rhinoplasty done in a hospital or outpatient surgical clinic setting. In either case, you will need to have another person present to drive you home and care for you in the first 24 hours following your rhinoplasty.

Which Is Preferable: Open or Closed Rhinoplasty Surgery?

"Closed" rhinoplasty, which is also called endonasal rhinoplasty, is surgery performed entirely through the inside of the nostrils. All incisions are made from inside the nostrils so there will be no visible scarring after you heal.

"Open" rhinoplasty, which is also called external rhinoplasty, is surgery performed by making a small incision in the columella (the small piece of connective tissue under the tip of the nose that separates your two nostrils).

For general purposes, there is no one "better" or "less dangerous" surgical approach. Rather, the choice is made based on what the best approach is for your unique needs and goals. Closed rhinoplasty can be ideal for minor adjustments and changes that are largely cosmetic in nature.

Open rhinoplasty, which provides better visualization of the existing nasal and surrounding structures as well as easier access, can be a better choice for more detailed or extensive rhinoplasty needs.

Ultimately, the choice of which approach to use will be up to you and your surgeon. You can trust your surgeon to recommend the method that is the best fit for your needs and goals.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty or Revision Rhinoplasty?

The best candidate for any type of nasal surgery is an individual who is healthy in all other ways, a non-smoker (or willing to cease use of nicotine before and after the procedure until the body heals), with realistic expectations about outcomes.

Revision rhinoplasty candidates are typically either dissatisfied with the results of a prior nasal surgery or seeking further health improvement for structural health issues.

How to Prepare for a Rhinoplasty Procedure?

You will need to tell Dr. Becker about all medications and/or supplements you are taking and be willing to stop taking those that can interfere with surgery. These are typically medications that are contraindicated with use of anesthesia or those that can thin the blood and cause excessive bleeding during surgery.

It will also be important to stop the use of nicotine and alcohol at least two weeks prior to your surgery and for a recommended period of time following your surgery to give your body its best chance to heal quickly and fully.

You will want to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, eat a healthy diet and arrive for your procedure in the best health possible.

What Is Rhinoplasty Recovery Like?

Recovery from a rhinoplasty or revision rhinoplasty procedure may come with some initial discomfort and swelling in the first several days following your surgery. You will be provided with specific post-operative instructions as well as prescriptions for medications to ease any discomfort.

It will be important to sleep with your head elevated and to resist the urge to blow your nose until your surgeon clears you to do so. You should also steer clear of any strenuous physical activity or exercise for at least the first few weeks to give your body its best chance of healing fully.

When Will Rhinoplasty Results Be Visible?

Because the tissues in and around the nasal area will continue to heal even after any visible swelling recedes, it can take up to a year to enjoy the full cosmetic results of your procedure. For this reason, it is important to be patient as your body continues to heal.

However, the positive health benefits of having a rhinoplasty or revision rhinoplasty typically become noticeable within two to three weeks following the surgery. For example, you may notice you are breathing more easily and clearly within this early time frame.

About the Becker Rhinoplasty Center

Dr. Daniel Becker, a nose surgeon in New Jersey is also the founder and medical director of the Becker Rhinoplasty Center, a world recognized expert in the field of rhinoplasty. Dr. Becker is Board Certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology (ENT), Board Certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS) and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS).

Dr. Becker's global clientele appreciates his commitment to the least invasive, most natural appearing results, with a focus on patient satisfaction and improved health and quality of life throughout. The exacting skill and dedication required for a specialization in rhinoplasty and revision rhinoplasty has also made Dr. Becker a sought-after lecturer, researcher, author and professor in the field. Visit us at www.therhinoplastycenter.com.